Extreme Homes: This is Yurt Life

Once the au courant domicile of the sophisticated 1970s counter-culturalist, the humble yurt is entering a new era of popularity, say some makers. One reason: low environmental impact. And, with its roundish form and single-room layout, a yurt has simple charms. Its low cost of construction and go-anywhere, build-anywhere simplicity is attractive as a modestly priced alternative to traditional housing. Would you live in a yurt? Pick from your favorites in this slideshow and leave a comment on your yurt-ability.

The typical single-room construction of a yurt means that modern conveniences, such as a bathroom or a garage addition, often are secondary structures incorporated into the overall design. This Alaskan home features a yurt perched atop a two-story garage and workshop.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeDo it Yurtself

Prepackaged kits provide everything you need to build your own yurt, including lattice walls, roof rafters, doors and windows, and a moisture-proof coverings for the roof and exterior walls. Most modern yurts meet the structural requirements of the International Building Code and can be built in 3 to 4 weeks. Expect to pay $5,000 to $6,000 for a 16-foot-diameter yurt.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeFun for Yurt Whole Family

A yurt doesn’t have to be your primary residence — they make great backyard playhouses, retreats, workshops, and studios. Before setting up your yurt, be sure to check property zoning laws in your neighborhood.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeYurt So Vain

The interior design of a yurt is often a comfortable mix of central Asian exotica and Old West bohemia. This version’s centrally placed, overhead ventilation port is great for adding daylight and moonlight, and is covered with cloth when it rains. The port is framed by a structural device called a tension ring. The ring ties the rafters together, creating a rigid roof system.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeNo Pier Pressure

Your yurtish individualism may lead you to set up in unusual locations, such as this serene bay. The best part of your splendid isolation? You’ll get to skip mowing the grass and other lawn maintenance chores — all that water sure is an ideal lawn replacement alternative.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeYurt Off the Grid

Based on the homes of the nomadic tribes of ancient Mongolia, the yurt is an extremely portable, packable home that can be built virtually anywhere. You may not have plumbing and electricity, but you’ll avoid some typical home owner headaches, such as plumbing problems and electrical fire dangers.

Extreme Homes: This is Yurt LifeYurt-Round Comfort

Equipped with a wood-burning stove and a well-insulated exterior door, yurts can stand up to the most rigorous winters, keeping the interiors snug and cozy. Just be sure to cut your firewood in early summer to give it plenty of time to season.